Folk bonanza at Shoreham's Ropetackle

Shoreham's Ropetackle puts the spotlight on folk music this month.
Emily PortmanEmily Portman
Emily Portman

Spokesman Mark Phillips said: “We host an eclectic mix of musical genres at Ropetackle and without doubt one of our most popular is folk music.

“Rich in harmony, tradition, musicianship and lyricism, folk music is perhaps most familiar in its Celtic form, performed with traditional instruments including fiddle, acoustic guitar, double bass and unaccompanied voice.

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“We’ve had the pleasure of hosting some of the world’s foremost folk artists from the UK, Europe, North America and beyond, and this March is no exception. From Thursday, March 23-Wednesday, March 29, the stars align to bring five days of folk magic to Ropetackle, each showcasing a unique variety of this enchanting and fascinating musical form.

“Emily Portman & The Coracle Band plays on Thursday, March 23, something of a supergroup, Emily has joined up with Bellowhead’s Sam Sweeney, folk stars Lucy Farrell and Rachel Newton, plus several others to tour her critically acclaimed album Coracle.

“Damien O’Kane Trio and Daoirí Farrell play Saturday, March 25, 8pm, two of Ireland’s leading folk artists. Damien performs folk-pop that is Irish music for the 21st century, and Daoirí has recently been nominated in two categories for the 2017 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

“Rackhouse Pilfer play on Sunday, March 26, 8pm, a fiery new band who have received rave reviews for their exciting blend of Irish, Americana and roots music. They were awarded Live Band Of The Year by Hot Press in 2014.

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“Maddy Prior (Tuesday, March 28, 8pm) is a true icon of British folk music. Maddy has built a substantial following exploring different avenues of the genre, she performs the music of England, the British Isles and Eastern Europe.

“Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys (Weds, March 29, 8pm), hailing from Canada’s east coast, is a multi-award winning group serving up old-time roots music with an energy level that practically yanks you out of your seat by the collar.”

More folk highlights include:

Rachel Newton (Tuesday, April 4, 8pm), a founding member of several folk bands, singer and harpist Rachel also writes and performs her own solo material.

Free Folk Afternoon (Saturday, April 8, 12pm), part of the venue’s ten-year celebrations. Pop down and enjoy a free afternoon of folk music from several local bands including Shoreham duo Hickory Signals, and local folk heroes the Wellington Wailers.

Box office: 01273 464440 or ropetacklecentre.co.uk.

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